Contact: Andrew Beckett – dmawempio@widma.gov
When tornadoes are in the forecast, ReadyWisconsin wants to ensure everyone knows how to stay safe. To help prepare, all of Wisconsin is invited to participate in statewide tornado drills today at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. The drills are a great opportunity for schools, families, and businesses to take time to review their tornado safety plans and where they should take shelter during severe weather.
While some isolated thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening, they are not expected to be at severe levels.
During a tornado, the best shelter is a basement, away from exterior walls and windows, or a designated tornado safe room. A ground floor interior room with no windows and no shared exterior walls, such as a bathroom or closet, can also provide protection if a basement is not available.
For the drill, the National Weather Service will conduct NOAA Weather Radio tests, which can be heard at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. if your device is set to sound test alerts or if you are actively listening to a weather radio at the time. Some communities may also choose to test their outdoor warning sirens during the drill times, which is a decision made on the local level.
Information will also be shared across social media or on-air by ReadyWisconsin, Wisconsin’s National Weather Service offices, and participating television and radio stations across the state. ReadyWisconsin also encourages everyone to set a calendar alert or alarm on their phones to remind them to practice their plan today.
For more tips on severe weather preparedness and advice on creating your own emergency plan, visit https://readywisconsin.wi.gov.
You can also follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook, X, Threads, and Instagram for tips on emergency preparedness throughout the year!
